Durham appoint James Franklin as head coach on two-year contract

Durham have appointed former New Zealand all-rounder James Franklin as their new head coach on a two-year contract.

Franklin, who played 31 Tests, 110 ODIs and 38 Twenty20 internationals for the Black Caps, succeeds Jon Lewis and will be assisted by former Durham players Neil Killeen and Alan Walker.

Killeen will also operate as bowling coach, while Walker's role will have a focus on second-team cricket.

"I am delighted to be given the opportunity to lead the coaching programme at Durham Cricket and I cannot wait to join up with the playing squad and the rest of the support staff," said Franklin, who captained Middlesex to the Specsavers County Championship title in 2016.

"There is no doubt that it has been a challenging couple of years for Durham but now it is about moving forward, making progress both on and off the field and once again striving to make Durham one of the powers of the English Domestic Competition.

"I really hope we can make all our loyal, passionate supporters proud of us as a club as we work incredibly hard to achieve our goals for 2019 and beyond."

Durham's director of cricket Marcus North said: "Following an extensive recruitment process, it became clear that James was by far the best fit for Durham.

"I am extremely excited for James's arrival and look forward to working with him during this new chapter for Durham Cricket."

Durham will complete their coaching structure by appointing a batting consultant.